Apple could improve screens on iPad, Studio Display and more

Apple may be one of the biggest companies in the world, but that doesn't free them of criticism. For many, one of the biggest gripes for years has been the slow refresh rate on devices like the non-Pro iPhones.

That's true even on the devices they released this year – the iPhone 16 still only features a 60Hz refresh rate. Rumours emerged yesterday suggesting that could change next year.

Now, it looks as though that move to higher refresh rates won't be limited to just the iPhone. According to an unnamed source on the Upgrade podcast (via 9to5Mac), similar updates will come to some iPads and the 24-inch iMac.

The full quote is as follows, "I have news on screen improvements for the next generation of the M3 iPad Air. Apple is working on a higher refresh rate LCD display with a new liquid motion panel fixed at around 90Hz. They’re also working on expanding it to other models or products like a 24-inch iMac and a next-gen studio display.”

That's an interesting upgrade. It would certainly be unusual to have a panel fixed at 90Hz. That would do away with all of the benefits associated with an adaptive refresh rate.

There's also no word on how soon to expect these updates. The iPad Air in question is anticipated for early 2025, but there has been no word on another Studio Display. The new iMac was only unveiled last week, too, so the chances of an update to that coming any time soon are slim.

Still, it's certainly a step forward for the range. The lack of faster refresh rates has been a bug bear of potential users for years at this point, with many far cheaper devices outstripping Apple's when compared spec-for-spec.

After a long time spent in the shadows, 2025 may finally be the year when Apple's display technology steps into the light.